Initial Posting Date:
04/24/2026Application Deadline:
05/10/2026Agency:
Parks and Recreation DepartmentSalary Range:
$4,124 - $5,458Position Type:
EmployeePosition Title:
Park Ranger 1 - Smith RockJob Description:
Near Bend, Oregon
Welcome Statement
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is proud to care for Oregon’s extraordinary landscapes and rich cultural history. The department serves its visitors and all Oregonians through its properties and programs, and recognizes that the state’s resilience and beauty are strengthened by its diverse population. Oregon State Parks are public spaces where all are welcome. We value and serve everyone, and we are committed to providing safe and equitable access to state parks and agency programs. The department will not tolerate racism, harassment, discrimination or intimidation in any form.
Your New Role
As a permanent, full-time, Park Ranger 1, you will perform and oversee a wide range of duties to protect, maintain, operate, and repair state park lands and facilities. This includes caring for natural and cultural resources, maintaining structures and infrastructure, and ensuring safe and enjoyable park experiences for visitors.
In this role, you will apply skills in various building trades such as carpentry, electrical, plumbing, painting, and landscape maintenance along with specialized program skills including resource interpretation, cultural and natural resource restoration, utility system operation, and park rule enforcement. This position supports the daily maintenance and operations of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department properties within the Smith Rock Management Unit.
For a complete review of the position and responsibilities please click here.
What's in it for you:
An exciting opportunity to help millions of visitors connect with the top state parks across America; working alongside a dedicated, skilled, and passionate team of professionals. Additional benefits include:
Work/life balance, 11 paid holidays a year, and a competitive benefits package.
Advancement and learning opportunities that will help grow your career with the State of Oregon.
Minimum Qualifications:
Two years of visitor services experience (e.g. rule enforcement; interpretation such as education and environmental awareness programs; special events and activities; etc.) AND/OR maintenance experience (e.g., construction trades, landscaping). OR
An Associate's degree in Park and Recreation Administration or Natural Resource Management or Environmental Studies and 6 months of visitor services experience (e.g. rule enforcement; interpretation such as education and environmental awareness programs; special events and activities; etc.) AND/OR maintenance experience (e.g., construction trades, landscaping).
NOTE: A higher level degree may substitute for the Associate's degree. There is no substitute for the 6 months experience.
Special Requirements:
To be hired, a criminal record and driving record check must be completed that meets OPRD Criteria at the time of hire, and throughout employment while also maintaining a valid driver’s license.
Desired Attributes:
Skill and knowledge of park resources, facility operations and maintenance, including use of tools, cleaning, basic plumbing, painting, carpentry, trail maintenance, basic electrical, and safety and rule enforcement.
Skill in maintaining composure and taking appropriate action during emergency or emotionally charged situations.
Skill in evaluating situations, applying rules and guidelines, determining and carrying out appropriate course of action to achieve desired results.
Experience using a computer with software programs like (MS Word, MS Excel, MS Outlook, etc.) to enter data, registration of customers, fee collection, reconciling fees and completing deposits.
Leadership experience and skill working with diverse individuals and work teams including seasonal and permanent staff, volunteers, adults and/or juveniles in custody crews, or the general public, giving direction concerning work procedures to accomplish different and varied tasks to achieve goals.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with frequent changing priorities and disruptions.
Experience working with diverse general public providing inclusive customer service in a public setting.
How to Apply:
Applications will be reviewed for minimum qualifications and desired attributes listed above, consistency of information, and professional communication.
Note: A cover letter is required for this job posting. Failure to provide one may eliminate your application from consideration.
Use the "My Experience" section in your Workday candidate profile to provide a detailed overview of your work history, experience, and skills, demonstrating how you meet the minimum qualifications and any of the desired attributes listed above. What You Need to Know to Get the Job
The information in your application will be used to complete an Equal Pay Analysis to determine salary placement upon hire. Click here to learn more about Equal Pay Analysis.
External Applicants: Click on the “Apply” link and submit your application. View this video or this knowledge article for assistance.
Internal Applicants (Current State of Oregon employees): Apply via your employee Workday account. View this knowledge article for help.
Veterans: We value the dedication of Veterans! Take advantage of Veterans’ Preference by submitting the required documentation at time of application. The requirements can be found on the Veterans' Resources page under “Qualifying for Veterans’ Preference”.
After applying, log in to your Workday account (application site) to see if you have any pending tasks or actions that need to be completed before the announcement closes. Save a copy of this job announcement for your reference.
Additional Information:
This position is represented by Service Employees International Union (SEIU).
This announcement may be used to fill future vacancies as they occur.
Oregon Parks & Recreation Department does not offer visa sponsorships. Within three days of hire, all applicants will be required to complete the US Department of Justice Form I-9, confirming authorization to work in the United States. Oregon Parks and Recreation Department uses E-Verify to confirm that applicants are authorized to work in the United States.
Contact Information:
For questions about this position, contact hiring supervisor: Sam Vanderbeek, email: Sam.Vanderbeek@oprd.oregon.gov or by phone: 541-548-7501.
For questions on application process, email: OPRD.Recruiting@oprd.oregon.gov.
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Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, committed to diversity.
The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.